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Health and wellness expert Rachel Grunwell has been announced as the new brand ambassador for Rotorua's Polynesian Spa.

A mother of three, Grunwell is a yoga and meditation teacher, wellness magazine columnist, keynote speaker, healthy recipe creator and runs the Inspired Health website and social media channels with a combined fan base of around 20,000 Kiwis.

Polynesian Spa chief executive Gert Taljaard said the company selected Grunwell to be its ambassador because of her influential health and wellbeing background, but also because Rotorua was very close to her heart. She was born and raised in Rotorua and once worked with the complex as a massage therapist.

"It's great to have an ambassador who has had a lifetime relationship with Polynesian Spa having spent her childhood years growing up enjoying our pools and her early career working as part of our team. Having authentic ambassadors on board is very important to us," said Taljaard.

As brand ambassador, Grunwell will inspire people to integrate the benefits of mineral bathing, spa treatments and mindful moments into their wellness regime.

"I'm excited to be part of the Polynesian Spa family. I can't wait to share real-life and science-backed wellness wisdom to help people to be healthier and happier. I'm looking forward to being back in Rotorua more regularly and it's great to be collaborating in an industry which I am passionate about," said Grunwell.

Ironically one of the two exclusive alkaline and acidic springs that feeds into the 28 pools at Polynesian Spa is named the Rachel Spring and the new ambassador has been excited to rediscover the history of the therapeutic and rejuvenating waters.

Her first job is to help develop a wider range of healthier choices for the new 88Ra Cafe menu and she will host the Mindful Moments Retreats during the year.